Simpson elected chair of Regional Education group

Sen. Gary Simpson, R-Milford, has been elected chair of the Southern Regional Education Board’s Legislative Advisory Council.

The nonpartisan SREB, formed in 1948, helps 16 member states to advance public education and student achievement at every level, from pre-kindergarten through post-secondary institutions. The Legislative Advisory Council, comprised of legislative leaders in education from each of the member states, advises the SREB on education matters from a legislative perspective.

“Since coming to the Senate, I have been impressed with the quality of programs offered by the Southern Regional Education Board, and the work they have been doing to help students achieve a quality education,” said Simpson, who was first appointed to the council in 2007. “I am humbled by the role I might now play as part of the leadership team of this great organization.”

Simpson will serve as chairman for one year.

“During my time as chairman of the Legislative Advisory Council, I look forward to healthy debates concerning Common Core State Standards, evaluating and retaining effective school leaders and the ever-increasing role Washington plays in determining the future of education in our individual states,” he said.

Simpson was elected at the group’s annual conference, held recently in New Orleans, La.

“Senator Simpson has actively been involved in the activities of the Legislative Advisory Council since his appointment in 2007,” said Gale Gaines, SREB’s vice president for state services. “He brings to his role as chairman experience not only from his legislative tenure, but also from his leadership role in the Delaware General Assembly and his work at the University of Delaware.”